How to Plan Finishing Works for a Clean Handover

Planning finishing works effectively is crucial for a successful project handover. Whether you're a developer, main contractor, or homeowner, understanding the finishing process helps ensure quality outcomes and timely completion.

What Are Finishing Works?

Finishing works encompass all the final touches that complete a construction project. This includes snagging, final fix carpentry, decorating touch-ups, and preparation for handover. These works transform a nearly-complete project into a ready-to-occupy space.

Start with a Comprehensive Snagging List

A detailed snagging list is the foundation of effective finishing works:

Creating Your Snagging List

Systematic Inspection: Work through the property room by room, top to bottom
Document Everything: Photograph defects and note locations clearly
Categorise Items: Group by trade (carpentry, decorating, electrical, etc.)
Prioritise: Identify critical items that affect occupation vs. minor cosmetic issues
Be Specific: "Touch up paint on north wall, 1.5m from door" is better than "paint touch-up needed"

Common Snagging Items

Paint scuffs and touch-ups required
Door adjustments and alignment
Silicone sealing gaps or defects
Trim and architrave gaps
Floor scratches or damage
Electrical faceplate alignment
Cleaning requirements

Programme Your Finishing Works

Realistic scheduling is essential:

Allow Sufficient Time

Don't underestimate finishing works. A typical residential property might require:

Small apartment: 2-3 days
3-bed house: 4-7 days
Larger properties: 1-2 weeks

Commercial projects vary significantly based on size and complexity.

Consider Dependencies

Some finishing works depend on others:

Decorating must be complete before final cleaning
Floor protection needed until all other trades finished
Final fix carpentry before decorating touch-ups
Cleaning before final inspection

Build in Buffer Time

Add contingency for:

Additional items identified during works
Weather delays (for external works)
Material delivery times
Coordination with other trades

Coordinate Multiple Trades

Finishing often involves several trades working in sequence or parallel:

Establish Clear Communication

Single point of contact for coordination
Regular progress meetings or updates
Clear programme shared with all trades
Prompt notification of any changes

Manage Site Access

Coordinate timing to avoid trades working over each other
Ensure adequate parking and welfare facilities
Maintain site security and access control
Protect completed works from damage

Quality Control Throughout

Don't wait until the end to check quality:

Regular Inspections

Daily walkthrough during works
Address issues immediately
Photograph progress
Update snagging list as items are completed

Set Clear Standards

Agree quality expectations upfront
Provide reference samples where applicable
Use industry standards as benchmarks
Document any deviations agreed

Prepare for Handover

The final stage requires careful preparation:

Final Cleaning

Remove all debris and waste
Deep clean all surfaces
Clean windows inside and out
Ensure all protective coverings removed
Check for paint splashes or marks

Documentation

Prepare handover documentation:

Updated drawings (as-built if applicable)
Warranty information
Operating instructions for systems
Maintenance recommendations
Contact details for follow-up

Final Inspection

Conduct a thorough final inspection:

Work through snagging list systematically
Check all items marked as complete
Test all fixtures and fittings
Ensure all areas cleaned
Take final photographs

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Learn from common mistakes:

Underestimating Time

Finishing works always take longer than expected. Build in contingency.

Poor Communication

Lack of clear communication leads to missed items and delays. Establish clear channels.

Inadequate Lighting

Inspect works in good lighting. Defects hidden in poor light will be visible to occupants.

Rushing the Final Stage

The final 10% often takes as long as you think. Don't compromise quality for speed.

Incomplete Snagging Lists

A vague snagging list leads to disputes. Be specific and comprehensive.

Working with Contractors

If engaging contractors for finishing works:

Provide Clear Scope

Detailed snagging list
Access arrangements
Programme expectations
Quality standards required

Request Detailed Quotations

Ensure quotations include:

Itemised scope of works
Clear exclusions
Programme with milestones
Payment terms
Warranty information

Maintain Good Communication

Regular progress updates
Prompt responses to queries
Clear decision-making
Professional working relationship

Conclusion

Effective planning of finishing works ensures a smooth handover process. Start with a comprehensive snagging list, allow realistic time, coordinate trades effectively, and maintain quality control throughout. The effort invested in proper planning pays dividends in the final result.

Remember: finishing works are your last opportunity to ensure quality before handover. Take the time to get it right.

Need professional finishing works? Contact Mitchell Contracting for a detailed quotation.